RICKENBACKER AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Oh. -- Capt. Jenniffer J. Green, a sexual assault response coordinator with the 121st Air Refueling Wing, Ohio, receives Ohio National Guard’s Exceptional SARC for 2018 at Rickenbacker ANGB, Ohio April 27, 2018.
“Jenniffer brings a unique combination of both passion and compassion that is rarely seen and that makes her an exceptional SARC,” said Col. Mark Auer, the wing commander of the 121st Air Refueling Wing.
Green received the award before the “Embrace Your Voice” 5k Color Run. The purpose of the Color Run was to bring attention to Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Participants were doused with teal powder as they ran, walked or biked the 3.1 miles.
Green said that the run had the largest turnout to date and had well over 100 participants.
Since becoming the SARC at the 121st ARW in September 2016, Green has been successful at making connections and working with people from other branches of the military.
To organize the event, Green worked with the 73rd Troop Command SARC, the Naval Operations Support Center victim’s advocates and the Lima Company 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines victim’s advocate. All units are located on Rickenbacker ANGB.
“Jenniffer has done a tremendous job of building bridges with our sister services here at Rickenbacker. Although we are not officially designated a Joint Base, Jenniffer’s inclusive approach to this important program has increased the efficacy of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program across the entire installation,” said Auer.
Not only has Green been effective working with her counterparts from other branches, but she also strives to be there for Airmen as well.
Green said that she feels most rewarded when people feel comfortable enough to talk to her, especially since she has not been in the position or with the wing that long. She said that not only is she there to help victims of sexual assault, but she also gives guidance on work related issues or career navigation.
But, Green says that the job can be discouraging as well. She said that it is unfortunate that sexual assault still exists.
Green said that it is very important that Airmen look out for one another.
She said, “In that moment that we see something, we need to say something.”
Green says that in doing something in that moment both parties can be protected and prevent a bad situation from getting worse.
“We take an oath to protect each other,” said Green. “And I take that oath very seriously and I encourage everyone to take it that seriously too,”